Mother Church of Alfredo Wagner – Bom Jesus Parish

The majestic Mother Church of Alfredo Wagner – Bom Jesus Parish, a journey through faith and history! 

Since 1965, the stunning Igreja Matriz de Alfredo Wagner has stood as an imposing landmark, visible to everyone who crosses the BR-282, the highway that connects the mountainous region to the captivating capital, Florianópolis. 

Contemplating a rich and engaging history, the Bom Jesus Parish, founded in the late 1950s, found its headquarters in a modest chapel built in 1927. At that time, the community gathered for masses celebrated by the first parish priest, Frei Agatângelo, coming from Curitiba /PR. With the growing number of believers, the need for a new building that could accommodate everyone arose. Thus, a committee was formed to realize the vision of a church worthy of the community. 

Defying the engineering and builders of the time, the church had a ceiling height of almost 25 meters. The plant, attributed to a German priest (this information needs confirmation), was supervised by engineer Dr. Antônio Carlos Werner. The Zilli family, renowned for its mastery in the art of masonry construction, led the construction of this grandiose work, with master builder José (Bépi) Zilli at the helm. 

Local families, such as the Kretzer, the Almeida, the Schweitzer, the Bunn, the Cechetto, José de Campos, Nena Frutuoso, among others, contributed everything from donating keys to panes for the windows. With sacrifice, the Matrix was considered ready to welcome the faithful in 1965. Originally, the plan included an imposing tower at the back left (where the Parish Hall is today). However, due to costs, this tower was temporarily omitted, with plans to build it as soon as resources permitted. 

Explore the wonders of the Igreja Matriz de Alfredo Wagner and allow yourself to be immersed in the richness of history and spirituality that permeates this sanctuary of devotion! 

Don't forget to also get to know the Riozinho Cave with a breathtaking setting! 

Parking: Available inside the Church courtyard. 

Distance from Florianópolis: 106km